Nancy Denson recall, Athens, Georgia (2012)

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An effort to recall Nancy Denson from her position as mayor of Athens, Georgia, was launched in February 2012.[1] The recall effort was abandoned in late February 2012 after organizers failed to submit enough valid signatures to move the recall effort forward.[2]

Reasons for recall

James Daniels initiated the recall campaign. Daniels has accused Denson of colluding with Atlanta developer Selig Enterprises. Selig Enterprises is developing an area of land in downtown Athens that is likely to include a Wal-Mart.[1]

Denson's response

In a written response, Denson's lawyer, Michael Daniel, said, "She should be applauded, not attacked through petty, meritless legal maneuvers." Daniel said the recall effort is an attempt to harass Denson for being pro-business.[1]

Path to the ballot

On February 20th, recall organizers submitted 112 signatures to kick of the recall process. 100 signatures are required to initiate recall proceedings.

On February 27th, the Athens-Clarke Board of Elections threw out the petition against Denson because it included only 75 valid signatures.[2]

If enough signatures would have been found valid, a judge would have decided whether the allegations warranted a recall campaign. If a judge had allowed the recall effort to move forward, recall organizers would have had 45 days to gather 17,000 signatures.[1]